Pharmacy Q & A

A day in the life of pharmacist, Riette van Zyl

Get to know your friendly Medirite pharmacist!

Q: Give us some insight into your daily work as a pharmacist?  

On a daily basis, the main part of my job involves dispensing medication and reviewing prescriptions for accuracy. I check for drug interactions and provide extensive patient counselling on medication. I also have administrative duties, such as monitoring stock supply.

Q: What’s the most fulfilling part of your day?

The most fulfilling part of my day is helping patients receive the medication they need to improve their health and wellness. I also appreciate hearing feedback from patients about how the medication I provided has positively impacted their wellbeing.

Q: How can we tell the difference between a cold and the flu?

Telling the difference between a cold and the flu can be difficult because of their similar symptoms, but there are differences in the onset, symptoms, and severity.

Cold: The onset is gradual and develops over 1-2 days. There is rarely a fever or only a mild fever. Fatigue and body aches are mild. A mild cough is often present, usually with mucus. Patients often experience a sore throat, runny nose, and sneezing. The duration of a cold is usually between 7 and 10 days.

Flu/Influenza: The onset is very sudden. The patient will have a very high fever. The body aches and fatigue are usually severe and can last for weeks. The cough is typically dry and persistent, often accompanied by chills and a headache. There can be a sore throat and nasal symptoms, but not always. The duration of the flu can be 1-2 weeks.

Q: Should we still worry about COVID in winter?

Yes, COVID-19 is still a concern. Remember that respiratory viruses spread easily in cold weather when people tend to crowd together. It's best to protect yourself with good hygiene, including using hand sanitiser and wearing a mask in crowded places.

Q: Is it safe to combine flu medicine with regular chronic condition meds?

Flu medication can be safe, but it depends on the chronic medication you are using. Be cautious with decongestants if you have high blood pressure. Always check that the medication you are using contains a moderate amount of paracetamol and that you are not taking more than 4g of paracetamol per day.

Q: What natural remedies do you recommend for nasal congestion?

Medirite saline nasal spray helps flush out mucus, while honey and ginger tea have anti-inflammatory effects for the throat and sinuses. These can be effective for relieving symptoms.

Q: What’s your best Medirite product for staying healthy?

I use the Medirite Multivitamin to support my immune function and reduce fatigue. It also helps with my general wellbeing.

Q: What lifestyle changes can help reduce our need for medication?

A healthy and balanced diet can help control blood pressure and your blood sugar. Physical exercise like walking can improve your mood and help with weight management. Learn stress management techniques and get adequate sleep every night.

Q: Can you share more info about why the flu vaccine is necessary right now? 

It is necessary because it protects the community from contagious respiratory viruses. If you do get sick, it won't be as severe as it would have been without the flu vaccine. The flu vaccine targets the most common circulating virus strains for the period.